Starting on Tuesday, November 13, 2018, the RMV is transitioning its new license/ID card issuance format from a nine-digit alphanumeric code consisting of one letter (“S”) and eight numbers to one consisting of two letters (“SA”) and seven number. This change is necessary because the RMV is running out of new “S” combinations in which to issue new Massachusetts licenses and ID cards. This change only pertains to newly issued credentials. The RMV is keeping “S” numbers on all current licenses, IDs, and permits, and they will not change upon renewal.

As an important RMV partner who may exchange data, we want to make sure you are aware that when you access driver and ID information from the RMV beginning on November 13, the “SA” format will be used for all newly issued Massachusetts driver’s licenses and ID cards. Existing credentials will continue to be in the current “S” format, and will not convert upon renewal.

Customer Searches

It is recommended (and always standard best practice for RMV employees) that you search by customer name rather than by credential number, as this will prevent any issues with not finding all customer accounts. If you search using credential numbers, you may now need to search for both S Numbers and SA Numbers.